| Abstract Scope |
Despite the unique capabilities of microwave processing for developing novel materials and structures with exceptional transport properties, its application to thermoelectric materials has been limited. This talk will present the effects of single-mode cavity microwave processing on the structure, thermoelectric properties, and thermal transport of various silicide and chalcogenide thermoelectric materials. We will demonstrate how this technique can achieve unique microstructures and thermoelectric properties. Our results indicate that microwave interaction can generate microstructures that effectively reduce thermal conductivity and enhance the power factor, significantly improving the thermoelectric figure of merit (zT). Microwave processing offers a rapid method for simultaneous alloying, sintering, and decrystallization. These processes are thermodynamically non-equilibrium, and their underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Our findings highlight the significant potential of microwave processing to enhance the zT, output power, and efficiency of various thermoelectric compounds. |